Ephesians 5:22 teaches “Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” Yet we also know that husbands should not be tyrannical. How can husbands lead and not be a tyrant? I thought this quote from John Piper was worth meditating upon:
A husband is not preparing a bride merely for himself but for another, namely Christ
This was from page 29 of his book titled What’s the Difference?
I read this a few days ago and I’m still thinking about it. What a truth to meditate upon.
As husbands I know my wife is also part of the church of Christ. And the church is a bride of Christ. It is quite the thought that Christ is the Lord of all believers including myself; and that truth means I’m not the ultimate authority in my marriage nor the ultimate authority of my wife.
Keeping the end that Christ is the Groom definitely makes me desire to be more of a godly husband because of all that Christ has done for me to save me and redeem me.
Jamie,
” I think husband should be concerned if their relationship doesn’t bear any similarities to the other two relationships outlined”<–Very very good point.
Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. 1 Peter 3:7 – There are consequences if you do not treat your wife with respect – your prayers can be hindered.
Bruce,
Good point in bringing up 1 Peter 3:7. That verse definitely is a sober warning to those who think that a wife’s submission means he can be a tyrant. I say a big “Amen” to your comment, thanks for reading this post brother Bruce. I see from your profile you were in the Canadian Armed Forces; I was in the US military and have an immense respect for Canadian troops.
Hi Jim, 46+ years married so I’ve learned a few things, but still learning. Thanks for kind words ref Cdn Armed Forces, likewise with your troops my friend. Blessings.
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging.
Thank you Vincent for reblogging this post that I wrote. Big thanks.
You’re very welcome Pastor Jim 😎
Thanks, Jim. I could write a thick book on how NOT to be a good husband. All praise and thanks to God for His patience, mercy, and His example in Christ of how to be husbands.
Tom, I’m so glad that God saved your marriage, saved you, transform you and is working in you. What a testimony of God’s grace, mercy and patience! I’m still amazed at what you told me last week of God saving your marriage…again, what a testimony!
Thanks, Jim! I am so undeserving of what He’s done/doing in my life. BTW, our oldest unbelieving son said to me yesterday out of the blue that he wants to go to church with us tomorrow. Would you please pray for him? Thanks!
Wow I’ll be praying! Please update me tomorrow brother!
Thanks, brother! Will do.
Ephesians 5:22 must be understood in its larger context, especially with its corollary, 5:25 (and through to 5:33). See also Colossians 3:18-19, which is a shortened version of this teaching.
Hey Jim, Everything went very well with our son’s visit with us to church yesterday! I was hoping for him to have a Pauline-like epiphany but it was a miracle just for him to agree to go. He called tonight and reiterated that he liked the service. He said that he…get this….sat down with his girlfriend last night and they both watched the video of the same service!!! Thank you, Jesus!!!
Wow God is good! Praise the Lord. That is so encouraging to hear. Especially the part that he watched it again on video. With his girlfriend. I am praying that the Lord use your faithfulness and the faithfulness of the preaching to work in His heart and lead Him unto salvation!
Thanks, Jim! We are really encouraged by all the Lord is doing.
Well as a husband I say, that the Struggle is Real.